The spelling of the phrase "long march" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word "long" is spelled with the phonetic symbols lɒŋ, where the symbol "l" represents the sound of the letter "l," "ɒ" represents the vowel sound in "hot," and "ŋ" represents the sound of the letter "ng." The second word "march" is spelled as mɑːtʃ, where "m" represents the sound of the letter "m," "ɑː" represents the vowel sound in "car," and "tʃ" represents the sound of the letters "ch."
The term "long march" refers to a significant historical event in Chinese history as well as a metaphorical expression used in various contexts. The literal definition refers to the arduous journey undertaken by the Chinese Communists from 1934 to 1935. This military tactic was employed by the Red Army as they sought to evade the pursuit of the Nationalist forces during the Chinese Civil War. Covering approximately 9,000 kilometers, the long march crossed challenging terrains, including mountains, rivers, and barren lands, lasting for over a year.
Metaphorically, "long march" represents a symbol of endurance, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity. It implies a prolonged and difficult struggle towards a specific goal, often in the context of social, political, or personal challenges. The long march symbolizes the resolute commitment to a cause despite overwhelming obstacles or setbacks, highlighting perseverance in the pursuit of transformational change or accomplishment. It is often invoked to inspire individuals, organizations, or movements to withstand hardships and continue their progress against all odds.
Furthermore, the long march has become emblematic of Chinese Communist Party history and ideology. It is considered a founding myth of the People's Republic of China, representing the ability of the Party and its leadership to adapt and overcome challenging circumstances. The long march's significance transcends its historical context, and it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and tenacity required to achieve monumental goals.
The term "Long March" originated from the historic military retreat undertaken by the Red Army of China in 1934-1935. During the Chinese Civil War, the Communist forces faced significant opposition from the Nationalist government led by Chiang Kai-shek. In October 1934, the Communist Party decided to break through the encirclement of Nationalist forces in Jiangxi province and began their strategic retreat.
The term "Long March" was coined by Chairman Mao Zedong, who led the Communist forces during this period. The retreat involved marching through numerous provinces, covering approximately 6,000 miles (or 9,600 kilometers) over the course of a year. Despite facing immense difficulties such as harsh weather, rugged terrains, and intense battles, the Red Army still managed to successfully complete the retreat.